2015 Jaguar F-Type Coupe: LA Auto Show

What Is It?

Making its worldwide debut at the 2013 LA Auto Show, the 2015 Jaguar F-Type coupe is the stunning hardtop version of the recently launched F-Type convertible. The new fixed roof is aluminum by default, but it optionally incorporates a panoramic glass panel that won't compromise structural rigidity, according to Jaguar. With two seats, rear-wheel drive, compact dimensions and massive power under the hood, the F-Type coupe instantly becomes one of the most desirable sports cars on the planet.

The hardtop F-Type's dynamic styling suggests serious performance, and the two available engines don't disappoint. The base supercharged V6 actually comes in two states of tune -- one putting out 340 horsepower, the other 380 hp. Before you dismiss this engine as entry-level hardware, note that the 0-to-60 miles per hour times (5.1 and 4.8 seconds, respectively) are already world-class. But there are always those who want more, and Jaguar will be happy to oblige them with the F-Type R, which hits 60 mph in four seconds flat thanks to its exclusive supercharged 550-hp V8. (The F-Type convertible maxes out at a piddling 495 hp.) If there's anything disappointing here, it's that an 8-speed automatic is mandatory in every F-Type, so there'll be no heroic heel-toe downshifting like in the Jag's main rival, the Porsche 911.

The F-Type R also gets upgrades such as a reprogrammed transmission, special 20-inch wheels, race-ready brakes, adaptive dampers, an electronically controlled active rear differential and inflatable side bolsters. All F-Type coupes get an automatic rear spoiler that extends above 70 mph, LED running lights, leather upholstery (extended to various interior panels in the R) and Meridian premium audio (with extra speakers and power in the R). Of course, that gorgeous styling comes standard, too, and it's going to be a major selling point for the F-Type -- perhaps the major selling point, judging by the looks it's getting here in Los Angeles.

How Much?

$65,895 for the base model, $77,895 for the S model with 380 hp, and $99,895 for the F-Type R.

When Can You Get It?

Spring 2014

Add It to Your Shopping List Because...

The 2015 Jaguar F-Type coupe is new, different and astoundingly capable. Seems like the usual suspects have dominated the fancy sports-car segment for years, but the F-Type coupe is the proverbial breath of fresh air. Its head-turning style gives even Aston Martin a run for its money, and its hair-trigger supercharged V8 is a welcome change from the turbocharged engines overrunning the market. If you have the dough, this Jag will be hard to resist.

Other Cars to Consider

Chevrolet Corvette -- The cheaper Corvette feels much bigger than the Jag on the road, for better or worse, but it's vastly improved and offers comparable V8 power.

Nissan GT-R -- If performance is the name of your game, the all-wheel-drive GT-R is still the Godzilla of this class.

BMW M6 -- It may be big and heavy, but the M6 is incredibly fast and carries that hallowed M pedigree, so it's definitely in the mix.

Used Chevrolet Corvette Z06 -- There's no Z06 for the new C7 generation yet, and rumor has it that the previous Z06's 7.0-liter V8 won't be returning. All the more reason to get a used one, then: The C6 Z06 is faster than the F-Type R, and it's a lot more affordable, too.

Josh Sadlier
is an automotive journalist based in Los Angeles and has contributed to such publications as Edmunds.com and DriverSide.com. He holds arguably the most unexpected degree in his profession: a master's in Theological Studies.